With the latest updates to Part L (building regulations related to the conservation of fuel and power) now mandetarty and upcoming Future Homes Standard the primarily focus on improving the energy efficiency of buildings, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable construction practices is under the spotlight and even more prevalent for the commercial sector. With the continued cost of living crisis homeowners are also looking for ways to reduce household costs and exploring how thermally-efficient windows and doors can help them save money as well as energy.
In the context of fenestration (windows and doors) aluminum windows and doors can help achieve compliance with Part L in several ways.
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Thermal Performance: Aluminum fenestration systems can be designed with thermal breaks and insulating materials to reduce heat loss and improve thermal performance. They help create a more energy-efficient building envelope, which is crucial for meeting the required U-values and limiting heat loss.
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High-Performance Glazing: Aluminum windows and doors can accommodate various types of high-performance glazing, such as double or triple glazing with low-E coatings and inert gas fills. These glazing options help reduce heat transfer, minimize solar gain, and enhance insulation, all of which contribute to improved energy efficiency.
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Air Tightness: Properly designed and installed aluminum windows and doors can contribute to the overall air tightness of a building. Improved air tightness reduces drafts and prevents uncontrolled heat loss, helping buildings meet Part L requirements.
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Sustainable Manufacturing: Aluminum is a recyclable material, and many aluminum window and door manufacturers use recycled aluminum in their products. This aligns with the sustainability goals of Part L by reducing the carbon footprint associated with the production of fenestration systems.
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Longevity: Aluminum fenestration systems have a long lifespan, which means that they will continue to provide energy-efficient benefits over many years, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the building.
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Flexibility in Design: Aluminum's flexibility in design allows for the incorporation of various energy-efficient features, such as integrated shading devices, operable vents for natural ventilation, and the ability to adapt to different architectural styles and orientations to maximize passive solar heating and daylighting.
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Compliant Hardware: Aluminum windows and doors can be equipped with hardware that meets or exceeds the required standards for security and energy efficiency.
Altegra's products exceed the current Part L regulations and are manufactured onsite in our manufacturing unit in Somerset. Our products are made from low carbon aluminium that is fully recyclable and due to our manufacturing and distribution process our carbon footprint of making our highly energy efficient products is significantly reduced.
Whilst aluminum windows and doors can help you tick the compliance 'tick box' they also have the aesthetic appeal and allow larger glazing options for even more light.